Biden announces COVID jab requirements for US federal workers

The president stops short of a mandate as unvaccinated workers will instead be subject to regular testing and other restrictions.

US President Joe Biden will announce Thursday that all civilian federal workers will need to be vaccinated against the coronavirus or face regular testing, social distancing, mask requirements and travel limits. The requirements are not considered a mandate as those who decide against getting a vaccine will not be at risk of being fired, according to the White House. Additionally, Biden will direct the Defense Department to consider how and when it will begin requiring servicemembers to get vaccinated.